Moving doesn’t have to be expensive. From the day, you start preparing, to the day you are fully settled in your new address, there will be expenses associated with moving. Fortunately, there are ways you can save money and cut costs. Here are the best tips we know to help you save money on your move.
Pack Your Belongings
Packing is one of the most important parts of moving. Many moving companies provide professional packing services, but they can be expensive. Rather than hiring one for the job, you should consider packing your belongings yourself. Doing your own packing can take a lot of time and energy, but it will also reduce the costs. You can make it easy by dividing the responsibility among the members of your family. It is often common for people to underestimate the amount of belongings they have, and how long it will take to move them. It is recommended to begin the packing process a few days to a few weeks prior to your moving day to ensure you have enough time to pack. This will help you stay organized and help avoid any unnecessary stress or anxiety on moving day.
Find Free Boxes
You will need lots of boxes and cartons to pack your belongings. Buying all of them can cost you a lot of money. Instead, try to find free boxes. Many supermarkets and department stores throw away used boxes regularly. Get in touch with the people in charge of the disposal of boxes and ask them if they have any available. Your friends and neighbors may also have unused boxes lying in their attic or basement.
Use Newspapers to Wrap Your Belongings
Wrapping materials like plastic bubble wrap, may not be that expensive, but when you have to buy a lot of them, the cost can add up, which is why some just use newspapers. Newspapers provide a good cushion and are so light that they do not add much weight to the box. They are also environmentally friendly and easy to dispose of.
Reduce the Load
It goes without saying that the heavier the total weight of your load, the higher the transportation costs. Get rid of the things you won’t need in your home. Throw away the things that are too old or damaged. You could also donate, give away or sell the things that you don’t need but are useable. Reducing the load will make a significant reduction in your moving costs.
Apply for a Tax Rebate
According to Publication 521 of the IRS, you can deduct your moving expenses if:
- Your move occurred within one year from the date you started to work in your new location
- Your new job location is at least 50 miles farther from your new address than it was from your old address
- You have worked full-time for at least 39 weeks during the 12 months after moving to your new address if you are an employee.
For more money saving tips check out our posts on the 12 moving tips and cheapest ways to move cross country!